Hike to the Vallonbrun refuge

Name: Hike to the Vallonbrun refuge
Address: Route départementale 902 Lanslevillard, Val-Cenis, 73500
Telephone: 04 79 05 99 06
Price range: Free access.

Val-Cenis

Start out with an approach hike on a sunny slope dotted with rocks and sparse vegetation. Step into Vanoise National Park with this unforgettable ascent to a mountain refuge. The wide, open spaces seem to spread welcoming arms out to you.

Description

You may be wondering why the lower part of your itinerary appeals to via ferrata enthusiasts. As soon as you step onto the path, the ridges start to unfold before your watchful eyes. This is a dream spot for climbing activities. The highlight of your ascent takes you through rhododendrons, wild blueberry bushes, and steppe moorland. You're in a marmots' paradise and they're keeping a close eye on you. Skipping between burrows incessantly, they incite you to often stop and watch them, so that the ascent feels like no effort at all. When the snow melts, the mountain echoes with the sound of torrents. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot a few chamois coming down to find food, when the high-altitude cirques are still adorned with snow. As you pass the charming St-Antoine chapel, it seems to celebrate your arrival. A few steps more and you can treat yourself to a delicious food stop at Vallonbrun refuge. Allow yourself to dream of a multi-day adventure. Maybe next time?

Additional welcome

The duration of hiking trails is calculated using reference paces: 300 m/h ascent, 500 m/h descent and 4 km/h on the flat.

As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are given for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.

Minimum age: 10 years

Environments

Mountain view
Mountain location
Close to GR footpath
Pond within 5 km
Presence of livestock and guard dogs

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

Distance 6.7km
Route type Round trip
Elevation gain 550m
Negative gradient 550m
Daily duration 02h30
Signposted itinerary Yes
Beaconing accuracy Mixed markings (PNV: blue-white-red and GR: red and white)
Tricky passage A few stream crossings. Presence of snowfields at the start of the season.
Nature of the land Rock, Stone, Ground, Not suitable for strollers
Maximum altitude 2290m